Elected by the UFI board, Oman Convention and Exhibition Centre CEO Said Al Shanfari will become part of the association’s ‘Presidential Trio’ at its next global meeting in Bahrain.
Following a year as incoming president, Al Shanfari will become UFI’s president at the 2027 global congress in Guadalajara, Mexico in November next year.
Al Shanfari has headed up the Oman convention centre for eight years and currently chairs UFI’s Middle East and Africa chapter.
“I am deeply privileged to be selected as UFI’s Incoming President, representing not only our industry, but also the growing voice and contribution of the Middle East and Oman on the global exhibitions stage,” said Al Shanfari.
“This appointment is not only a personal honour, but a reflection of the significant potential of the exhibition industry to shape economies, industries and societies worldwide.
“I strongly believe that our industry’s greatest strength lies in its unique ability to bring people, ideas, cultures and opportunities together under one roof creating meaningful connections and real economic and social impact across borders.
“Together with our international members and partners, I look forward to building a stronger, more connected, innovative and sustainable future for the global exhibition community, while continuing to position our industry as a powerful driver of progress and opportunity worldwide.”
Current UFI president Panittha Buri said Al Shanfari’s deep Middle East experience “will inject new energy and thinking into our work”.
“Having witnessed firsthand his passion, vision and commitment to our industry, I am confident he will be a wonderful addition to our leadership – and a strong guardian of the values that define UFI and our global community,” said Buri.
UFI CEO Chris Skeith OBE also commented on Al Shanfari’s passion.
“Said has been a familiar and much-valued face at UFI events for many years and his dedication to our community has never wavered,” said Skeith.
“Having hosted the 89th UFI Global Congress at the Oman Convention and Exhibition Centre in 2022, we saw firsthand the warmth and professionalism he and his team bring to everything they do.
“As chair of UFI’s Middle East and Africa Chapter for the past three years, he has been an active and passionate advocate for the region and for our industry.”
